Carrabba’s Italian Grill was founded in Houston, Texas, in 1986 by “Johnny” Charles Carrabba, III and his uncle Damian Mandola.
In January 1993, in a joint venture with Outback Steak House, 10 new Carrabba’s locations were opened in Florida and Texas.
As of 2013, there were more Carrabba’s restaurants in Florida—home to parent company Bloomin’ Brands’ corporate headquarters—than any other state in the United States.
Many menu items came from recipes created by Damien’s mother, Grace, and his sister Rose.
In 2020, the company opened its first restaurant in Canada.
In 2021, Bloomin Brands bought out the founders of Carrabba’s Italian Grill in a royalty termination agreement. As part of the agreement, the founders kept their original two locations in Houston.
In November 2023, Carrabba’s launched its first mobile phone app, offering a free dessert with every order.
In December 2023, Carrabba’s began offering catering services at certain locations.
Carrabba’s maintains a corporate office in Tampa, Florida.
Carrabba's Italian Grill
Carrabba’s Italian Grill was founded in Houston, Texas, in 1986 by “Johnny” Charles Carrabba, III and his uncle Damian Mandola.
In January 1993, in a joint venture with Outback Steak House, 10 new Carrabba’s locations were opened in Florida and Texas.
As of 2013, there were more Carrabba’s restaurants in Florida—home to parent company Bloomin’ Brands’ corporate headquarters—than any other state in the United States.
History
Many menu items came from recipes created by Damien’s mother, Grace, and his sister Rose.
In 2020, the company opened its first restaurant in Canada.
In 2021, Bloomin Brands bought out the founders of Carrabba’s Italian Grill in a royalty termination agreement. As part of the agreement, the founders kept their original two locations in Houston.
In November 2023, Carrabba’s launched its first mobile phone app, offering a free dessert with every order.
In December 2023, Carrabba’s began offering catering services at certain locations.
Carrabba’s maintains a corporate office in Tampa, Florida.